→ Apply before 21/06/2026 (DD/MM/YYYY) 23:59 (Brussels Time)
→ Faculty of Engineering and Architecture
→ Department: EA08 - Elektromechanica, Systeem- en Metaalengineering
→ Occupancy rate: 100%
→ Number of positions: 1
→ Type of employment: Contract of limited duration
→ Term of assignment: 1 jaar
→ Wage scale: PD1 to PD4 (doctoral degree)
→ Required diploma: PhD
ABOUT GHENT UNIVERSITY
Ghent University is a world of its own. Employing more than 15,000 people, it is actively involved in education and research, management and administration, as well as technical and social service provision on a daily basis. It is one of the largest, most exciting employers in the area and offers great career opportunities. With its 11 faculties and more than 80 departments offering state-of-the-art study programmes grounded in research in a wide range of academic fields, Ghent University is a logical choice for its staff and students. This position connects the Center for Molecular Modeling (computational modelling), the Department of Electromechanical, Systems and Metal Engineering (materials science) and external collaborators in planetary science.
YOUR TASKS
We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to explore and establish a new research line on the ab initio prediction of phase diagrams for solids and liquids at high temperatures and high pressures. The scientific aim is to understand materials and alloys relevant to planetary cores.
This is an exploratory position. There is no predefined workflow or detailed research plan. The selected candidate will be expected to critically assess possible computational strategies, design and test workable workflows, and gradually build a robust research strategy in close interaction with the supervisor, the research group and external collaborators.
Specific tasks include:
- applying ab initio-based methods for phase diagram prediction under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions;
- performing first-principles simulations of crystalline and liquid phases, using density-functional theory and/or machine-learning interatomic potentials where appropriate;
- designing computational strategies to compare phase stability, melting behaviour and phase coexistence in systems relevant to planetary interiors;
- exploring the use of molecular dynamics, free-energy methods, thermodynamic integration, structure prediction, machine-learning interatomic potentials or related techniques, depending on the needs of the project;
- working in close collaboration with planetary scientists who are experts in planetary interiors but not necessarily in ab initio simulation methods;
- communicating computational assumptions, limitations and results clearly to collaborators from neighbouring disciplines;
- contributing to publications, presentations and the development of follow-up research proposals;
- interacting with other members of the research group working on condensed matter physics, materials modelling and first-principles simulations.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
You hold a thesis-based doctorate in physics, materials science, chemistry, computational materials science, geoscience, or a closely related discipline.
We are looking for a candidate who combines scientific independence with a collaborative attitude. The ideal candidate has a sound understanding of modern ab initio materials modelling and can apply existing methods critically and creatively to new scientific questions.
Required expertise and skills:
- solid knowledge of first-principles electronic-structure methods and their sound, well-controlled application to materials problems;
- experience with atomistic simulations of crystalline materials and/or liquids;
- experience with molecular dynamics simulations based on ab initio methods or related atomistic approaches;
- practical experience with one or more common electronic-structure or atomistic-simulation codes, such as VASP, Quantum ESPRESSO, WIEN2k, ABINIT, CP2K, LAMMPS or related software;
- ability to work independently in an exploratory research project where the workflow has to be designed during the project itself;
- creativity in translating a broad scientific question into feasible computational steps;
- good communication skills, in particular the ability to explain computational methods, assumptions and uncertainties to collaborators outside the ab initio simulation community;
- willingness to interact actively within a broader research team.
The following expertise is considered an advantage but is not mandatory:
- experience with machine-learning interatomic potentials (use and training);
- experience with high-pressure or high-temperature materials simulations;
- experience with phase stability, free-energy calculations, melting, phase coexistence or phase diagram construction;
- experience with high-performance computing workflows and scripting.
WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU
- We offer you a full-time postdoctoral contract of definite duration for an initial period of one year, renewable once for a second year after positive evaluation and subject to the usual administrative conditions.
- The contract can start in autumn 2026, preferably between September and November 2026. The exact starting date is negotiable.
- Your remuneration will be determined by salary scale PD1 to PD4, depending on relevant experience and in accordance with Ghent University regulations. Click here for more information about our salary scales.
- You will work in an enthusiastic research team of about 50 people. Several team members work in condensed matter physics and computational materials science, using similar first-principles and atomistic simulation tools but addressing different scientific problems. Interactions and collaborations within the team are strongly encouraged.
- All Ghent University staff members enjoy a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual fixed bridge days, bicycle allowance and eco vouchers. Click here for a complete overview of all the staff benefits.
INTERESTED?
Apply online through the e-recruitment system before the application deadline (see above). We do not accept late applications or applications that are not submitted through the online system.
Your application must include the following documents:
- In the field "CV": your CV.
- In the field "Cover letter": a short motivation letter, preferably no longer than one page, explaining your background, your scientific interests and why you are interested in this position.
- In the field "Diploma": a copy of the required doctoral diploma or degree certificate, if already in your possession. If you have a foreign diploma in a language other than Dutch, French, German or English, please add a translation in one of these languages.
- In the field "Other documents":
- a list of at least two people who may be contacted for background information;
- a link to a short video of 3-5 minutes in which you present yourself and explain why you are the right person for this position. A simple recording with your phone is sufficient; no editing is expected.
The short video is part of the application file. Applications without a video link cannot be assessed for this vacancy.
Note that the maximum file size for each field is 10 MB.
As Ghent University maintains an equal opportunities and diversity policy, everyone is encouraged to apply for this position.
MORE INFORMATION
For more information about this vacancy, please contact prof. Stefaan Cottenier ([email protected]). Important: do NOT send your application by email, but apply online.
Do you have a question regarding the online application process? Please read the FAQ or contact us via [email protected].
